Labor's Yachimovich says no to fancy car
New opposition chairwoman declines luxurious government-issued vehicle, says 'public can be served with just a Mazda'
Newly appointed Opposition Chairwoman Shelly Yachimovich refused to accept the luxury vehicle she is eligible for as opposition leader, saying that she would prefer to keep using the Mazda given to her as a member of Knesset.
The armored Audi A6, which was reserved for Yachimovich, is valued at more than NIS 1 million (roughly $280,000.) Yachimovich said she sees no reason for using such an expensive vehicle, adding that she would be capable of serving the public with her current Mazda.
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As Opposition chairwoman, Yachimovich is also entitled to close-quarters protection, a luxurious office and several assistants. However, sources close to the Labor party leader have said that she would relinquish any special government perks.
Earlier this week, Yachimovich was appointed as opposition chairwoman, after MK Shaul Mofaz joined Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, leaving the opposition with only 26 Knesset members.
"Does the truth have no value?" asked Yachimovich earlier this week following the decision to cancel early elections and establish a broad unity government.
"In the past few days, we've witnessed the most ridiculous zig-zag ever seen in Israeli politics – this will be taught in universities," the Labor chairwoman said.
Attila Somfalvi contributed to this story
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